Maverick

But, what kind of rock....

AspenMama

Okay, here's yet another good test to help you out from the Discovery Channel:

http://animal.discovery.com/guides/d.../selector1.jsp

Maverick

Thanks. I think I have tried that one before, but worth doing it again.

For those following at home I found a site with links to a bunch of pet selectors: Wonderpuppy.net

notmaudeflanders

I have two retired racing greyhounds, and I think they are the most wonderful dogs on the face of the planet. However, I'm not sure they'd be a great match for Maverick, just based on what he has said he is looking for - they do need to be kept on a lead at all times (when not in an enclosed space), and I noticed he mentioned earlier that would be an issue.

Also, with their low body fat and thin skin, they are not outdoor dogs.

Finally, greyhounds are very docile and loving dogs, and generally do well with children, but they're definitely not into 'rough and tumble' type games. Not sure if this would be an issue or not though.

ps Good luck with your search, Maverick.

Hobbs

I'd go with igneous. You never know what you'll find in sedementary rocks, and metamorphics are unreliable. As for what kind of igneous, personally I like basalt. It's a very fine-grained rock, as opposed to something coarse like granite or diorite. I also like their dark colors.

Julie

Most definatly cross Jack Russel terriers off your list. They are NOT good with children ( of cource there will always be exceptions, one of which is sitting beside me right now)

They are VERY active very smart dogs that need lots of excersise and need constant entertainment. IF left alone loose in a house expect to come home to find couches ripped apart and walls chewed (crates are a wonderful thing, all dogs should be crate trained) Oh and they are escape artists, they can get out of almost any backyard, they can even climb chain link fences.


I know Rotts exceed your weight limit but I highly reccomend them especailly with kids around, they are one fo the best breeds to have with kids (the only dog our vet reccomended to have with kids) Yes they need proper socilization, but any dog should have the same regardless of the breed, it just plain makes for a better dog. My 3 year old and my (LOL 3 year old) rotti are best friends, and my 5 year old loves her to death. They are an excellent breed of dog.

blink

We're all crazy about the Miniature Pinscher we're taking care of for our son. For one thing, he's beautiful. Just an elegant, fine creature with a glossy black and brown coat. His ears aren't cropped, so they flop over in a cute way. Does have a docked tail. He's very affectionate at times, and kind of independant other times. Loves to curl up with people, enjoys the cats and has learned not to bother them too much. He adores our big outside dog. He has a ferocious deep bark for such a little dog, and won't tolerate strangers. Once he decides someone is ok he is very friendly and remembers them.
I wouldn't call him hyper but he loves to play, especially with his toys or socks or sticks. He's curious, knows some words, is full of life and fun. I don't think I've seen a more exuberant frolicky creature than Jack when he's running free.
It's not a good idea to let them run free though because they're so fast. My husband saw him at the dry cleaners downtown with a bunch of people trying to catch him. He saw my husband's car and followed him home. We try to keep him in but he has his eye out for the door opening and goes for it whenever he can.
He has soulful eyes, doesn't drool, is neat and clean and doesn't shed. At least I haven't noticed it any.
Another neat breed is the Lakeland Terrier. I saw a really adorable one and asked the lady about it. Said he's a fantastic, sweet, non-hyper pet, about ten or fifteen pounds, tan curly hair.
Mutts are great too.

flintknapper

One of the most important things about selecting a breed is health issues. The breeds that are very popular have been bred extensively by people that don't have a clue about genetics and breeding, with the result being lots of bad blood lines. The Amish near here have puppy mills and crank out defective dogs at an alarming rate to sell at the malls. By buying a pure bred dog that is less popular, you have a better chance at getting good genetics from a sound and proven blood line.
Another solution to this is to buy a cross-bred dog. Outcrosses are usually genetically superior, and some of the most intelligent dogs I have known were plain old ''mutts''.
I have 2 Schnauzers, a miniature, and a giant. The mini don't shed at all, but the giant sheds somewhat. Dogs that don't shed usually are breeds that need to be clippered. I do my Schnauzers myself, and it is time consuming. If you pay to have it done, it can get expensive, and it needs to be done every couple of months.
The mini Schnauzers have been terribly overbred, and they can have genetic eye problem. PRA, progressive retinal atrophy, juvenile cateracts, and others.
I recommend a terrier. There are many types in whatever size you want. One of my favorites is a Fox Terrier, either wire-haired or smooth coat.

rlogan

Can't go wrong with dogs.

Give them love and they'll worship you to the ends of the earth.


You can tell a dog's personality with a little interaction, even as a puppy.

A couple of visits will tell you if you like the dog's personality. I think it more important than the exact breed.

Kind of like chicks. They may look good on paper, but until you test drive them don't be laying down the money.

Cynical-Chick

Any thoughts yet, Mav?